Braces - The Solution For A Perfect Smile

The societal pressure to have the perfect smile with straight teeth is definitely strong. Many people prefer to have their teeth aligned even if the process will take as long as two years and cause them discomfort. Nowadays, it is common for children, teens and adults to have their teeth aligned with the help of the most popular method, braces.

How Braces Work

Braces align the teeth according to the bite of the person. It corrects several problems that people have with the position of their teeth or the jaws. Braces, together with an archwire, are attached directly on the teeth and apply pressure to move the teeth after a period of time. In some instances, braces are reinforced with rubber bands, manufactured from latex, to add pressure on the teeth.

Previously, archwires were linked to huge metal bands that enveloped each tooth. This process was very painful on the patients because it exerted a lot of pressure on the teeth everytime the braces would be attached or adjusted. Currently though, the process has been made more convenient and archwires are now linked to small metal or ceramic brackets that are placed in front of the teeth. Metal bands are sometimes still attached at the back of the teeth however they have become smaller and lighter.

Braces Fashion

Fortunately, one can now choose from a variety of colors for braces. Teens and children often like to change the colors of their brackets, archwires and or rubber bands to match their favorite color, or a certain season or celebration. You can request from your dentist to change the color during a visit to adjust the archwires.

Moreover, you can also choose where to position your braces, either in front of the teeth or on the inside as in the case of lingual braces. If you want the braces to be completely hidden, lingual braces may be ideal for you. However, it is best to discuss this option with your dentist as it may not be suitable for you.

Retainers

Oftentimes, dentists advise their patients to wear retainers after braces. Retainers hold the teeth in their position after they have been aligned. They can be made from wire or clear plastic and fashioned according to a color or design of the patient's choice.

Retainers may be placed permanently or worn only during a certain time of the day. Initially, the dentist may advise the patient to wear the retainers everyday, day and night. With time however, they can wear the retainers only at night during sleep.